Terps Launch Season Monday Night in Baltimore vs. Coppin State
The Maryland Terrapins men’s basketball team kicks off the 2025-26 season on November 3, 2025, in Baltimore against Coppin State. This match is part of the Naismith Hall of Fame Baltimore Series and will be held at CFG Bank Arena, starting at 6:30 PM. Fans can watch the game live on BTN or listen through the Maryland Sports Radio Network.
Terps Season Opening Insights
Maryland holds an impressive record of 76 wins against 30 losses in season openers. Currently, they are on an 11-game winning streak in these initial matches. Head Coach Buzz Williams, who debuted at Maryland, has a personal record of 15 wins and 3 losses in season openers. Historically, Maryland head coaches have an outstanding 8-1 success rate in their first games.
Team Overview: New Look Terps
This season’s roster sees significant changes with only one returning player, junior guard Lukas Sotell, from last year’s Sweet Sixteen team. Out of 16 players, 15 are new additions, including five true freshmen. The team has incorporated experienced players through transfers, ranking as the 7th best transfer class in the nation.
- Pharrel Payne and Myles Rice are seasoned starters with substantial Big Ten experience.
- Elijah Saunders previously played for San Diego State, reaching the national championship game in the 2022-23 season.
- Solomon Washington contributed to Texas A&M’s three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances under Coach Williams.
Milestones and Streaks
This season, four Terps are set to achieve 100 career games, including David Coit, Pharrel Payne, Elijah Saunders, and Solomon Washington. Both Payne and Rice are on the path to reach 1,000 career points, with Coit leading the team on points, currently at 1,224.
Coach Buzz Williams’ Vision
Buzz Williams was appointed head coach on April 2, 2025. He previously revitalized Texas A&M, leading them to three consecutive NCAA Tournaments. Williams aims to join an elite group of head coaches who have achieved over 100 wins at four different institutions. With a record of 12 wins in 23 NCAA Tournament games, he is among the top coaches in Division I history.
Series Background
Maryland and Coppin State have faced each other three times so far, with the Terps leading the series at 2-1. Their first encounter took place on December 12, 1989, where Coppin State won. Since then, Maryland has secured victories in both recent meetings, making this the inaugural neutral site match between the teams.
This game carries a unique storyline as Maryland football star Sidney Stewart, the cousin of Derik Queen, connects these two institutions. He is the son of Coppin State assistant coach Stephen Stewart and nephew to head coach Larry Stewart.
Exciting Promotions Ahead
The excitement for Maryland basketball continues with various promotions throughout the season. The home opener against Georgetown on November 7 will feature the Gold Rush event, with exclusive giveaways for fans. Other notable promotions include the Red Out for the game against Michigan on December 13 and themed events such as Pink Out and Black Out games later in the season. Details on tickets and promotions are available on Emegypt’s website.
